Away from the frenzy of central Hong Kong

Lush, green hills and tranquil beaches with gorgeous views of the sea may not be the first images to spring to mind when thinking about Hong Kong.

But this well-known mecca for endless shopping, glitzy nightlife and towering skyscrapers that seem to defy architectural logic is also an outdoor enthusiast's dream. Hong Kong offers a myriad of options for hiking, sunbathing or just about any leisurely paced outdoor activity. Best of all, it's all within just a short ferry ride from the frenzied pace of Hong Kong's central business district.

What makes this all the more delightful for many visitors is it's so unexpected. Few people realize that more than 80% of Hong Kong consists of lands where urbanization has yet to make a mark. Most of this untouched splendour is in the so-called New Territories, which were leased to Britain in 1898, nearly half a century after Hong Kong Island itself.

There are 235 islands that make up the Hong Kong territory, several dotted with quaint villages and rugged terrain that can be awe-inspiringly beautiful, especially on days when air pollution is light and the sun makes an appearance.

Two of the most popular island destinations, both within an inexpensive one-hour or less ferry ride from Hong Kong Island, are Lamma and Lantau.

Ferries departing from the main pier in Central will whisk you away to your choice of two villages on Lamma -- Yung Shue Wan and Sok Kwu Wan. Yung Shue Wan, in the north of Lamma Island, is the most modern and populated of the two, with about 6,000 people calling it home.

A number of artists, former city dwellers and expatriates live here, seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle (not to mention high rents) of Hong Kong Island, and there are a number of small, privately run hotels for those who want a longer stay.

The harbour is a lovely backdrop to the town, a former farming and fishing village now sustained by tourism. Handicraft, clothing and souvenir shops and a variety of restaurants and pubs line the main street.

Sok Kwu Wan is a smaller, less tourist-oriented town, but not without its own rustic charms. A visit should include dining at one of the many seafood restaurants that border the ferry pier.

Lantau is a much larger island (at 146 square kilometres, twice the size of Hong Kong island) and you could spend days walking its hilly trails, sun tanning at its numerous beaches and visiting renowned tourist sites.

Its highest peak is nearly a kilo-metre above sea level, with spectacular vistas to be discovered throughout the island.

The most relaxing way to get to Lantau is by ferry. The main arrival point for ferries is Mui Wo, and you can connect here to other parts of the island by bus or taxi. Among the beaches -- reachable by bus or taxi --is Cheung Sha, a relatively clean, 1.6 kilometre-long beach that's perfect for swimming, windsurfing or kayaking.

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